MOAUM ASUU Strike Enters Third Week Amid Allegations of Council Misconduct and Financial Irregularities

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at the Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi (MOAUM) has continued its strike, which began on June 1, 2026, now entering its third week with no resolution in sight. The industrial action has sparked intense scrutiny of the university’s Governing Council, with many shifting blame to alleged inefficiencies and underhand dealings by the Council.

According to a detailed report by Andrew Oota, the strike coincides with growing concerns over the Council Chairman’s conduct, including unilateral appointments such as that of Prof. Ubwa as Director of CEFTER, the creation of new positions without due process, interference in deputy vice chancellor appointments, and the suspension of staff at will. Critics claim the Chairman has assumed responsibilities typically held by the Vice Chancellor, Management, and Senate.

Staff and anonymous sources have raised serious questions about the handling of substantial TETFund allocations, including over ₦2 billion in annual funds, ₦300 million zonal intervention, ₦4 billion special presidential fund for medical programmes, and ₦1 billion counterpart funding for PPP hostel projects. There are also references to past issues involving ICPC and EFCC regarding TETFund contracts.

Further allegations include irregular financial disbursements to Council members facilitated through an agricultural company account during the tenure of former VC Prof. Tor Iorapuu, and concerns over the dominance of contractors from Anambra State. Some Council members are reportedly now speaking out, calling for probes into procurement processes and fund utilization.

The report urges Rev. Fr. Chief Alia, the Visitor of the university, to intervene decisively, describing the situation as critical for the institution’s survival and the sustainability of gains made in recent years. It warns that failure to address these issues could send a strong message from ASUU and campus unions.

As the crisis deepens, students and parents await urgent action from relevant authorities to resolve the impasse and restore normal academic activities at the state-owned university. The Benue State government and university leadership are yet to issue official responses to the specific allegations.